Compassion

How can I offer care that respects what someone needs and what I can give?

Compassion begins by making room for what someone is actually experiencing. We may not have the right words. We can still ask, “Would you like me to listen, keep you company or help with something practical?” and take the answer seriously.

Care includes our own experience and capacity too. We can offer what we can honestly carry, respect privacy and help someone find other support when needed. Listening need not become an attempt to explain their pain, find a lesson or hurry them toward feeling better. Compassion can include silence, practical action and a necessary limit, with warmth and dignity in how we communicate it.

A question to sit with (optional): Have I asked what kind of care is welcome, and can I offer it without taking over?